The 8 Best Chimney Liners
This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in November of 2018. Before you settle down in front of a crackling fire, you might want to install one of these practical liners. They offer many benefits, for one thing, they prevent chimney interiors from deteriorating, and for another, they can guard against dangerous overheating. Not only that but in some areas, building codes require them. Here, you'll find a variety of kits for all fuel types. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Fireside Chimney Supply FireFlex 316Ti
2. Forever Vent Smooth Wall
3. Rockford Chimney Supply RockFlex
Editor's Notes
February 24, 2021:
Modern homes will often have a cement-based liner installed during construction, however, older buildings with masonry chimneys allow for corrosive byproducts to build up, undermining the structure of the chimney stack and blocking the airway, which can lead to harmful gasses and combustibles not being drawn away, and potentially causing fires. A good quality liner will protect the usable life of the chimney while providing a correctly sized flue for the optimum efficiency of appliances. Choosing the correct type of liner will depend largely on the type of fuel used and the required diameter of such appliances.
For gas fires and stoves, an aluminum option, such as the four-inch AmeriVent Flexible, or the Westaflex 2-Ply should be sufficient, since the heat output isn't as high as with natural fuels, however, regulations may dictate that a suitable insulator be used, for example, the Rockford Chimney Supply Blanket Kit. For true peace of mind, a stainless steel liner has a higher temperature rating and is recommended for use with wood, pellets, or coal. The HY-C ShelterPro, the Forever Vent Smooth Wall, and the Fireside Chimney Supply FireFlex 316Ti are all stainless steel liners that include everything needed for installation. The latter also has a lifetime warranty that can be transferred to the new owners should you sell your property. Finally, the Stove Builder International Vortex is a four-inch option that has been specifically designed for use with pellet stoves and conforms to strict UL and ULC safety requirements.
December 31, 2018:
Selected popular kits with flexible liners from Fireside Chimney Supply, Forever Vent, and Rockford Chimney Supply, all of which can be installed by a competent do-it-yourselfer. Also selected the Fireside Chimney Supply 304L Rigid, which can be tougher to install but is also more resistant to buildup over the long haul, and the Rockford Chimney Supply Blanket Kit, for those who wish to insulate.
Special Honors
CSIA Is the chimney safety institute of America, and can provide all the necessary information regarding building codes in your locality, along with recommendations on the type of liner needed and certified chimney sweeps who can inspect your property on an annual basis. csia.org
4. HY-C ShelterPro
5. Westaflex 2-Ply
6. AmeriVent Flexible
7. Stove Builder International Vortex
8. Rockford Chimney Supply Blanket Kit
Starting his career in the building industry, Chris built and managed a plumbing and heating company in northern England. After 13 years, seeking a more fulfilling lifestyle, he moved to southeast Asia, eventually settling in Vietnam, where he teaches writing and comprehension at a number of international universities. Drawing on his previous experience, and his passion for kitesurfing and windsurfing, Chris is knowledgeable in all things water related both recreationally and within the construction industry.